Virgin Experience Days and Virgin Unite Join Forces with The Girls Network Charity

Around 35 young women aged 15–16 from 2 London schools (North Brent School and Wembley High Technology College) were invited to Virgin’s head office to meet female leaders, build professional networks and explore career paths beyond traditional academic routes.

Organised by Virgin Experience Days and Virgin Unite with The Girls’ Network, the event explored how careers can develop beyond traditional academic routes.

Danni Rush, CEO of Virgin Experience Days, opened the day by sharing her journey from becoming a mother at 16 to leading a global business. She spoke about building her career without following a traditional academic route and the lessons she learned along the way, encouraging students to see that success does not always follow a single path.

After learning about Danni’s unconventional career path, a 15 year old student from Wembley High School said: “Hearing her story and what she created out of her situation shows every person has their own story and path to get there - it’s your mindset that matters.”

Unconventional career paths and mentoring future talent

A panel then explored what the speakers would tell their 15-year-old selves. It featured Rebekah Anderson, Senior Client Director at Journey Further; Becca Dean MBE, Co-founder and CEO of The Girls’ Network; and Yahkiyah Kusi-Mensah, a graduate at Lloyds Banking Group who began her corporate career as Virgin Unite’s first intern through SEO London.

The girls also took part in human bingo and speed networking, giving them time to ask questions directly and hear how different careers had developed.

Danni Rush, CEO of Virgin Experience Days, said: “When I was 15, I could never have imagined the career I’ve gone on to have. My path wasn’t traditional, and I’ve learned that where you start in life should never determine where you end up.

“I know from personal experience how powerful it can be when someone sees potential in you, believes in you and gives you an opportunity. That’s why days like this matter so much.”

Becca Dean MBE, Co-founder and CEO of The Girls’ Network, said: “Seeing the girls so engaged from start to finish and asking thoughtful questions throughout showed just how much they gained from the experience. Opportunities like this are at the heart of our mission: helping young women expand their awareness of the world of work and start building their very own networks of supportive women.”

The Girls’ Network connects girls from the least advantaged communities with female mentors and role models, helping them build confidence and explore opportunities. The charity has received two grants through Virgin Unite’s Local Legends programme, which supports community organisations nominated by Virgin employees who volunteer with them.

Throughout October, the charity’s Back Her Future campaign is inviting supporters to donate £5 and leave a message of hope to help fund its mentoring programmes. Find out more at thegirlsnetwork.org.uk.